Swarms

Resources

Horizons is officially CLOSED. The board will remain accessible as an archive, but staff has moved on. If you're looking for a new Pokemon RP, try Lucky Strike or any number of others.

Welcome to Veria!

Pokémon Horizons is an expansive RP driven by member-planned plots and regular site events more than any singular site-wide plot, meaning there is always something to do and always room for new ideas.

From classic Pokémon staples to simple slice-of-life to grandiose encounters with Legendary Pokémon, there's a little something for everyone. We've been open since December 2015 and are always eager to welcome new friends~

Post by Alanna Asakura on Dec 10, 2017 15:01:49 GMT -8

Tags:OpenWords: 722Notes:Wow my writing skills have improved quite a lot since I've been gone. Hope this post works for someone to join in on! Sooo Glad to be back. I missed you all so very much.~

☆

The sky was clear and pale blue free of any clouds , leaving it a simple canvas with a bright glowing golden globe providing some warmth. The day was chilled even with though the sun shone relentlessly overhead, the fine dusting of snow on the ground glittered like a sea of countless gem stone. The spruce and fir trees, themselves had a fine coating of the white powder, that caused them to shimmer in the soft breeze that rustled through their branches. The path through the mountains to her home was well worn and free of any snow.

Walking confidently along the worn solid earthen path, was a young woman. She strode with pride and confidence in each step. Her long strawberry blonde locks fell in gentle waves about her shoulders and back, framing her elegantly slender figure. Intelligent yet compassionate golden eyes that matched the sun overhead, glimmered joyfully in the frame of long lashes. A cheerful smile rested upon her rose petal tinted lips, her soft porcelain face, highlighted by a soft pink flush to her cheeks from the cold.

Around her shoulders keeping the cold from her soft form, was a white suede crop top style jacket, lined in with a thick warm fur. Under this her buxom chest and slender torso were clad in a deep ebony black top that framed her chest in a line of thin lace. Her thighs were clad in a black pleated mini skirt, the hem a brightly contrasting crimson ribbon shimmered against the cream color of her thighs. To protect herself from the cold, the young woman wore a pair of knee high black socks, the tops accented by a fine layering of white lace. Her feet clad in a pair of sturdy white leather boots, trimmed in white fur.

To her left strode a charcoal colored feline large enough for the young woman to ride as a mount if she so chose, his whip like tail ending in a star shape. He strode proudly at his mistress’s side, head held aloft. To her right strode a large slender canine like creature, a set of back curved horns protruding from his skull. Around the canine’s throat rested what appeared to be a crimson colored collar, with small ruby gem like spikes. At the center of his collar rested a megastone.

The young woman was feeling jovial and relaxed, finally being home after having to leave for so many months. She had felt home sick the entire time she had been abroad. The young breeder had, had to leave for the Kalos region. She had left a friend in charge of caring for her Pokémon while she had been gone. Though everyday she had been away, after she had surgery to repair the torn muscles and tendons in her shoulder, she had worked tirelessly to regain complete use of her shoulder, so she could return to her ranch.

Though before that she had one place she had to visit. She wanted to see the Pokémon Lab, and see the City of Liggs before she went home. Taking a fork in the path she headed into the city towards of one the many coffee shops. Now was the perfect time to get some coffee, or at least that’s how she felt. The scenery around her quickly changed from mountain forests, to that of a bustling mountain city. Looking down the path into the city ahead of her she couldn’t help the small smile that began to creep its way onto her lips, a fondly happy feeling settling into her heart as strode her way into town, following her nose as she found her way to the coffee shop of her choice. “It’s so good to be home isn’t it boys?” The young woman’s voice was soft yet filled with a warm happiness, as she addressed her two Pokémon companions. Each giving a respective joyous sound in return. A soft giggle escaped the young woman as her and her Pokémon stood outside one of the less crowded coffee shops. She stood with her legs slightly crossed one hand at her side the other resting on her chest, as she gazed down at her Pokémon. The trio seemed to be lost in their own little bubble of happiness and joy, completely oblivious to the world around them.

Post by Harper Haile on Dec 10, 2017 16:44:16 GMT -8

((OOC: Shot in the dark, this post was fun either way. If someone else wanted to join and I didn't naturally come up again I wouldnt' fuss!) )

A not so crowded coffee shop was exactly what Harper was looking for.

Coffee shops! The words inspired all sorts of longing in this young woman's heart. She had a growing fascination with them since she was about 16, about 8 years now. It had turned over the years to an almost desperate need.

Whenever she imagined these sorts of atmospheric, cozy, fashionable and chic locations it brought to mind a very typical sort of fantasy for her. A gorgeous young woman sitting on one of those tables, surrounded by friends. They were amazing friends too and this was their typical sort of haunt. Pretty friends! Fashionable friends! With her sitting among them, taking sips from a mature roast of coffee and laughing among them. Perhaps discussing the antics they got up to with Pokemon, romance, or the latest winter fashions.

Instead what reality found for Harper is that she was sitting alone at a table that seemed a bit big for her, wearing a dress that seemed mature in the shop but on her... the vintage flair of the plaid colored holiday dress with the bright holiday ribbon along the waist, short sleeves, and a Peter Pan collar seemed to take away years from her, not add to them! No... this wasn't good at all. Not ideal! Not what she wanted! She wasn't going for the old-fashioned 5-year-old look!

The only guest at her table was a well behaved little Togepi that sat on the table, sleeping. She had come in cradling the little baby Pokemon and the sweet thing found it easy to drift off for a nap in such a moody lit place that played inoffensive music. Which was well and good for Harper, she was here on a mission.

It wasn't just looking like a kid that ruined Harper's fantasies, it was also... not enjoying coffee. Each and every time she tried to take a sip of the stuff she wanted to gag. Bitter and spicy food always gave her the same reaction as the first time she tried it, and she was super sick of being tempted by the mature smells only to be turned away by the taste.

She wanted this so much. It was unfair. The absolutely worst! The world was out to get her! Coffee was supposed to be an acquired taste. How come she couldn't acquire it?! She had paid her dues!

'Please give me this.. just this...'

So she sat at the table with a small cup of three different light roasts and was trying her hardest to get herself to take a second sip of any of them. Each time the coffee touched her tongue it took all her energy to keep herself from spitting it out and getting tossed out.

She totally going to take another sip. Yeah, no doubt! Right? Right? Her eyes wandered with panic, trying to distract herself from the feeling she had wasted a bunch of muns on drinks she was going to try to toss away when no one was looking. She had been defeated again... hadn't she? But... adult stuff... coffee shops...

It was then when her eyes wandered out she noticed someone standing outside! Pretty! Her long flowing hair, graceful posture, and fashionable outfit. Harper always got shy about older looking women that were so... pretty and put together. She was almost exactly like the friends she imagined herself having all the time. Something about her just was like this walking, 'I am everything you wish you could be!'

Post by Alanna Asakura on Dec 10, 2017 17:57:43 GMT -8

The young woman gave a warm loving smile as she knelt down in front of her completely charcoal colored Luxray, and the Houndoom. Stroking each with a hand she hugged them before standing up. “You boys stay here, you’re to big to be inside.” She spoke softly, obviously extremely trusting of her Pokémon who both nuzzled into her palm. Standing up she gave a graceful about face waling through the door. A soft jingle came from small golden bell tied to the door handle. It was a rather welcoming sound, the softly soothing music greeting her as she walked in, head right for the counter. Her long strawberry blond hair billowing behind her like a silken veil. Each movement of her body calculated, though they a held a gentle practiced grace. A wonderfully warm smile rested on her rose petal lips. The smells of roasting coffee and baking treats greeting her as she approached the counter, and the barista. “Hello there, I’d like a double espresso vanilla macchiato, and chocolate muffin please.” The tone of the young woman’s voice was warm and kind, even to someone whom was a complete stranger. She seemed to be a symbol of warmth and kindness even with humans not just her Pokémon. The clerk wasted no time ringing her up, and she paid happily. Turning from the counter to wait and find a place to sit, the young woman caught sight of the blond girl, and her Togepi sitting at large table alone. The young woman stood for a moment debating on if she should go say hello, and ask about her Togepi since she had one of her own. Just as she was about to make her way across the café to the girl the barista sat her order on the counter. The young woman turned thanking the barista as she picked up her order. Striding gracefully across the room, a warm friendly expression resting on her face as she approached the girl and her Pokémon. “Hello there, that’s a very cute Togepi you have there miss.” Her tone held the warmth and friendliness of a clear spring day, as she greeted the girl. Still holding her items, she smiled hoping that she wasn’t being to forward in starting a conversation with the girl. “My name’s Alanna.” She introduced herself with a cheerful inflection to her warm tone. Honest warmth and friendly demeanor showing clearly. This a common thing with her now, much more so after she had her accident several months earlier. She was beginning to hope as well that she wasn’t bothering or interrupting the girl’s relaxation time. Her intelligent golden gaze wandering over the girl’s outfit admiringly, it was a cheerful holiday theme that made her look younger than she was. This brought a memory of how her father used to force her to dress this time of year, forcing the memory out of her mind, she readjusted her muffin plate so as not to drop while standing there.

The older woman couldn’t help but note the places where it could be altered to fit her better, and make her appear the real age she was. Catching herself thinking ahead she mentally kicked herself. Maybe this girl wanted to look younger and was going for the cute factor, but that only made her wonder why the girl would be in a coffee shop. Though she couldn’t help but note the multiple cups of different coffee sitting in front of her. None of them having more than a sip taken out of them. “If the coffee is to bitter, add a few spoonfuls of sugar, and some sweet cream. I used to hate coffee, but my dad would make me drink it. Said sophisticated girls drank coffee.” A soft giggle left the young woman as she spoke. “So, I had to figure out a way to make it drinkable.” She offered the girl a bit of random advice.

Post by Harper Haile on Dec 11, 2017 3:12:25 GMT -8

Harper quickly turned around away from the door, trying her best to not look like she had been staring at Alanna before she came in. Her eyes drifted towards her sleeping Togepi and stayed there, trying hard to focus on it instead of listening to the pitter patter of shoes and a sweet, soft voice ask for a fashionable sounding coffee. It didn't work at all though.

What's an expresso it sounds... fast... when I ordered a small the coffee guy looked at me like I was really weird... I should have gotten a muffin too...

She ran her fingers along the cup, looking so very glum, only pulled from her brooding when she realized that same soft voice was not talking very close.

“Hello there, that’s a very cute Togepi you have there miss."

It took her an embarrassing couple moments to respond to this. She stood there still a bit of disbelief that the fashionable looking lady had walked right up to her but she eventually found enough courage to attempt a reply. Finding however that she had apparently lost the ability to words, she eventually was forced to settle with nodding a few times.

"T-Thanks..." Harper's voice never did her any favors. Like her body, it belonged to a girl of about 7, not to the 24-year-old that she was.

It was a constant on her mind but came up pretty strongly as they sized each other up, Harper envy of Alanna shifting towards a more innocent sort of infatuation. She was really pretty. Pretty girls always made Harper feel really shy and bashful.

“If the coffee is too bitter, add a few spoonfuls of sugar, and some sweet cream. I used to hate coffee, but my dad would make me drink it. Said sophisticated girls drank coffee.” “So, I had to figure out a way to make it drinkable.”

She blushed and reached out towards the table, grabbing one of the coffee's holding it in her hands. "T-Thanks!" she said again, starting to feel silly... like Alanna might think that was the only word she knew. She glanced down at her drink for just a moment at this point... To be honest, she had already put a lot of cream and sugar inside... but sitting next to this woman made her feel adamant to try again.

She could talk! Although she had accidentally thought of this lady as older than her, it was obvious that she was actually younger! She didn't need to be scared! "I... my Papa thinks I'm too little for coffee." She grinned a bit. "But I'm not! I like it!" She held the cup in her hand and took another big sip, and she immediately made such a powerful grimace as the bitter drink hit her immature palate. She looked like she was trying to hold back her disgusted look but was doing a horrible job of it, and she clenched her little fist on the table.

Not realizing how bad of an acting job she had done, she smiled and took a "relived" sounding sigh and set the drink back on the table.

"Your Pokemon looked really nice too! They had shiny coats and looked real handsome!" She beamed at Alanna, starting to get excited. It might not have been the same as her vision, but she was having coffee with another girl! She didn't have a single female friend... so she was very pleased!

She decided she could talk about Togepi now too, that she had found her confidence. "Togepi is really cute, isn't she?" She put such a gushing emphasis on really and clutched her hands to her chest. "She's my first Pokemon! I just love cute babies! The internet says they can be really fussy, but mine is such a good girl~" She grinned at her Pokemon and then back at Alanna.. and then decided to offer her hand."I'm Harper! Harper Haile! Do you come here a lot, miss?"

Post by Alanna Asakura on Dec 11, 2017 9:01:52 GMT -8

The girl seemed to be rather melancholic upon her approach. However, a warm hello and a kind smile can help most down trodden spirits. She had learned that from the friends she had made after coming here to Veria. Though after greeting her the girl seemed stun that she had even spoken, let alone to her. This brought a soft tiny giggle to her, as the girl only seemed to manage a nod.

A few more moments passed before she was allowed the grace of hearing the girl speak, in a tiny sheepish voice. The young woman leaned slightly forward sitting her cup on the table. The girl’s bashful nature was completely endearing to the young woman, only serve to broaden her warm smile. She was struggling to speak which only spoke to her shy nature, at least towards her, for the moment as she thanked her yet again. Sliding her muffin onto the table, she hoped she wasn’t intruding as slipped into a nearby chair.

A soft warm laugh left the young woman as she caught the girls adamant determination that she indeed did like coffee. In a way, it reminded her of when her father had forced her to first start drinking coffee. She had hated the terribly bitter hot drink with a burning passion. Then the maids started slipping sweet cream and sugar into her coffee and she found at least with that she could tolerate the stuff. “Well it seems to me, that if you are old enough to be trusted to be on your own, then you are old enough to decide whether you’re too little for coffee or not.” Though she was only nineteen years old, she seemed to be quite intelligent and confident in herself. Her voice was kind, but it was clear that she knew what she was talking about. Be it from personal experience or other means. She seemed to understand the weight of the words she spoke.

At the girl’s clear reaction to the bitterness of the coffee, the young woman couldn’t help but give a soft laugh, hiding her lips behind a closed fist. Moving her hand, a warm and highly amused smile rested on her lips, as she slid her own cup across the table. “Here try this. It’s a different style of coffee, much sweeter and its flavored, so it should suit you better. If you’re anything like me, you enjoy sweet things.” She observed with a clear warmth to her kind voice. She had yet to even take a sip from her own cup, but she was willing to share, if the girl was so determined to drink coffee. Maybe she would find a Vanilla Macchiato more to her own taste. “Careful though it has a double shot of espresso, which is really strong coffee.” Her voice was kind but there was a tone of sudden worry, as she warned the girl about the extra caffeine.

The girl quickly changed the subject, and she realized the girl had seen her before she entered the Café and smiled. “Oh, thank you very much. I’m a breeder by trade so I pride myself in how my Pokémon's appearance.” She explained sweetly, though she cast a loving gaze, to the Luxray, and Houndoom still sitting outside the Café door. Both held themselves with pride though any child who passed and greeted them, they gave a warm and kind welcome and allowed themselves to be mauled or tugged on by the child. Clearly, they were well enough trained that they could be trusted without their trainer’s guidance.

Finally, glad to see the girl opening up a bit as she began to gush about her Togepi. A sense of relief washed over her, as a friendly smile replaced the warm welcoming one. She was glad to see the girl relaxing and begin to enjoy herself. “She is absolutely adorable, and wonderfully healthy. Her shell is very shiny, and her fur is very shiny showing just how well cared for she is. She’s lucky to have such a caring trainer.” The young woman offered a warm smile, as she looked down at the sleep Togepi. “They can be, if you don’t learn to listen to them. They tell you exactly what they need, if you just listen.” Her smiled faded to one of fond warmth as she gazed down at the Togepi, realizing just how much she missed her own. “My first Pokémon was Tesla, the black Luxray out there. We’ve been together a little over two years now.” Her tone had become one of fond remembrance as she spoke.

Finally, the girl gave her name. Glad to finally have a name to put to such a cute face. A broad jovial smile spread across her lips. “It’s a pleasure to meet you Harper, actually yes. I live on the outskirts of Liggs at my ranch. I have been gone a few months though due to surgery, so I stopped in here on my way home.” She offered freely, clearly a very open person. “What about you? Do you come here often?” She was genuinely curious, mostly hoping to see more of the girl. Perhaps she would like to see her Togepi. Alanna was beginning to mull over a few idea’s in her head as the two women chatted.

Post by Harper Haile on Dec 13, 2017 1:32:59 GMT -8

Is this a dream? This has gotta be a dream... it's just like I dreamed. It's perfect! Perfect!

Everything about her body language was excited. When she reached over across the dark wood table, her hands moved so fast that she knocked over the little sign in the middle. But she wasn't deterred. She put it back up and didn't look the least bit embarrassed. There was still a bright wide smile. Her hands touched the offered drink and she glanced back at the lady... her friend?

She nodded without having much to say. Well, to be honest, she had about a bajllion things to say. But right now she was full of anticipation. She held the warm cup to her lips and nervously took her first sip, half out of the normal sort of nervousness involved in putting any kind of piping hot liquid in someone's mouth but.. half...

She had to like it, she had to.

And she did.

It wasn't perfect. The coffee still rang through and made her gulp it down... but it was edible! There was something tasty about it. She could... totally drink this! Perhaps it was just because of the way she looked but her joy looked so pure at it, a bubbly sort of feeling. Something was going right when so much had been going well.

"I like it! Oh my gosh, oh my gosh! I like it!" her voice almost cracked a little, not so used to speaking so loud. "Miss... Alanna! I think we are alike!" she was beaming, at her, very nearly taking another sip before giggling and nudging it back over across the table.

I feel so funny! Is this caffeine! Did I have enough!? It was double, right!?

The more Alanna shared the better Harper felt, to be honest. "A breeder! Taking care of Pokemon and making them pretty is way better than fighting!" She nodded quite a few times, nearly leaning forward out of her chair, readjusting herself back down and smiling down at Togepi. "I just want a lot of cute Pokemon I can hug... making them fight... I don't like it." She said, tracing her finger across Togepi's delicate shell. She could never imagine making her baby fight. Was there something wrong with her?

"S-Surgery!? A-Are you alright? Do you feel better now?" she said, her expression still animated, looking almost like she might shiver at the talk of surgeries. "I hated when Papa made me go in for tests..." Talk of Papa didn't make her feel much better than the surgeries honestly, and she couldn't imagine how scared she would feel having to get one of those!

"No..." She didn't like that answer. "I don't but... but I wanna!" She grinned and felt happy again, thoughts of frightening surgeries out of her mind at least until her new friend expanded on that more. Her eyes occasionally danced on the cup of coffee she had nudged ahead of her. She almost wanted to get up and order one herself but felt some sort of panic about it... like it might cause the dream to end.

Post by Alanna Asakura on Dec 13, 2017 10:54:32 GMT -8

Alanna couldn’t help the look of adoration and amusement that slipped onto her features, as she watched the other girl’s excitement. It absolutely cute which only added to the girls sweet and adorable features and personality. Alanna was beginning to see that Harper was actually just as cute inside as she was outside. It was nice seeing how excited Harper got finding the taste of the coffee drink Alanna had offered her tolerable. This caused her amused smile to spread into a deeply pleased grin.

As the excited flurry of words leaped from Harper lips, Alanna couldn’t help the small chuckle that left her. At being called miss again, a light flush colored her porcelain cheeks a soft pink. “No need for formality, we’re friends now right?” Alanna paused realizing how presumptuous she was actually being, the flush on her cheeks darkened a bit. “I mean at least I hope we are?” The last part of her sentence came out as a sheepish question, accompanied by a rather hopeful smile.

It wasn’t that Alanna didn’t have friends, it was more that she liked meeting new people. Even more so if she could call them a friend. “Ya know, they have a whole menu of drinks like this one, you should experiment and find the one you like best.” She was attempting to subtly shift the conversation back to a more casual topic.

“I couldn’t agree more, I love caring for Pokémon, and I love knowing that eventually the Pokémon I raise will become someone’s perfect partner one day.” As she spoke her tone shifted to a soft fond sweetness as she gazed down at Harper’s Togepi, knowing that one day her Togepi would Harper’s greatest ally one day. That was why she had chosen to become a breeder, because she wanted to make people and Pokémon happy. “I used to actually be unable to battle at all. I was afraid my Pokémon would get really hurt, or worse.” She couldn’t look Harper in the eyes as she drew a circle on the table with her finger. “But then Tesla and Josh showed me, that battling can be fun between friends. Tesla and Rees really like a good battle every now and then.” A soft laugh left her as her mood shifted back to happy from the momentary melancholic feeling.

“Well why don’t you come by my ranch sometime? I have a lot of cute little fluffy Pokémon.” Alanna offered a rather prideful smile, clearly the young woman held pride in her work and the Pokémon she raised. “I can agree, I don’t enjoy fighting. Tesla actually.” She paused her cheeks flushing again as she gave Harper a sheepish smile. “He’s a performer at heart, it was what he wanted to do. So sometimes we participate in contests. We haven’t won any but it’s really fun.” She beamed across the table at her new friend.

A soft laugh escaped Alanna, as she cast a warm smile on Harper and her apparent worry. “I’m much better actually, thanks to the doctors in Kalos. I had an accident in the underground of Liggs, a Noivern attacked me and Rees and I slipped off a ledge and injured my left shoulder and arm rather badly.” A softly assuring smile slipped into place on her features. Though the experience had been terrifying and hard, she had learned a lot from it. She had slid the cup back in front of her, taking a sip herself before giving her muffin a nibble as she listened to Harper.

“Well you’re always welcome to come visit me.” Alanna paused getting a spectacular idea she pulled out her receipt and pen quickly scribbling her Holowatch number on it. “Here anytime you want to meet up for lunch or coffee or shopping, feel free to call or shoot me message.” She beamed a bright cheerful grin across the table, as she slid the paper towards Harper. “I don’t mind you dropping by the ranch whenever you feel like it, I mean it’s where I run my business, so I’m used to.” She was rather enthusiastic in her offer, hoping that Harper would indeed accept it.

Post by Harper Haile on Dec 15, 2017 15:11:33 GMT -8

Harper, on the other hand, did not have a single friend. Except for now. Now she had one.

It was like the butterflies in her stomach were fluttering up all the way to her throat, but also still somehow threatening to lift her off her feet. She felt like dancing, and still pinching herself. This couldn't be happening. It was just a conversation. It was nothing.

"We're friends!" She held out her pinky. It just felt right. She grinned a big wide grin.

She giggled and sat back in her seat, clutching her knees, listening attentively, nodding a along as she mentioned her own experience with fighting. Harper didn't know what to feel about it...

"Maybe I could try it.." she whispered to herself. It still sounded too intimidating right this moment but... she believed a little more.

When Alanna finished and finally responded to everything, she burst. She leaned over the table and immediately put in the information, quickly sending a test message that consisted of a quick still image of her looking so goofy and happy in her chair.

She glanced up, putting her hands on the table.

"I want to! A ranch! I'm glad you're better! Did you have someone to help you out at your ranch while you were hurt? It's really hard to do it by yourself, right? I'm having a real tough time with my job right now!" She.. sounded particularly happy about it. It was hard to sound geninuely upset right then.

While she let her friend respond, she poured over the menu. What other drinks would be semi-tolerable? What could she do to unlock this adult behavior? It started to feel genuinely possible for the first time ever.

Post by Alanna Asakura on Dec 18, 2017 14:01:12 GMT -8

Alanna truly enjoyed meeting new people, each one was different in their own way. She liked getting to know each person, as each one had their own uniqueness to them. Much like the Pokémon she bred and raised.

A bright and warm expression fell into place on her features. She was glad to see that Harper seemed happy to know Alanna was wanting to be friends. At Harper’s enthusiastic agreement that they were friends, a joyous and thankful expression settled onto her features. As Harper stuck her pinky out, Alanna couldn’t help the tiny laugh that left her. Reaching out she grabbed Harper’s finger with her own.

Alanna smiled as Harper seemed a bit forlorn about the idea of battling. “Battling isn’t for everyone Harper. I had my reasons for being afraid of battling, but thanks to Rees I got over them.” She offered a warm smile as the Houndoom outside heard his name and glanced inside to ensure everything was alright. “You don’t have to battle honestly, I know plenty of people who prefer not to in fact.” She offered kindly, hoping this would brighten her back up.

As she received the picture from Harper, Alanna couldn’t help but grin brightly. Taking a moment Alanna rested her wrist with HoloWatch on it on the table, saving Harper’s number and information into the device. Alanna was surprisingly excited to be adding a new friend to her contacts, especially since it was her first day back in Liggs.

The excitement from Harper about going to the Rising Stars Ranch, was infectious and caused Alanna to grin brightly. It was easy to tell how caring Harper was just from how she acted at the knowledge that Alanna had been hurt. “I did actually have a lot of help until I left to go to Lumiose city for surgery. I had my helper Makani and my friend Emily. Makani I’m not sure how to get a hold of though to let him know I’m back.” She sighed, but cast a sweet smile to Harper. Alanna couldn’t help but laugh softly at the flurry of questions and information coming from Harper. The young woman honestly reminding her of a hyperactive and passionately optimistic kid. “It can be tough, but I like it. I mean my Pokémon help out too, mostly my Audino Velvet. She’s a sweetheart.” She grinned happily, honestly beginning to wonder how Velvet was faring with the babies, without her.

As Harper poured over the menu, Alanna took her time responding. That was until Harper piped up with her choice of career. “Oh, that’s actually pretty cool, I’ve done a lot of research into myth and legends. Mostly because I help out part time as a Lab assistant, at Morgause Laboratory here in Liggs.” She chimed in thoughtfully, genuinely interested in the fact that Harper was a Paranormal Investigator. “If I may ask, why are you having trouble with your job?” She asked curious as to if she might be able to provide some sort of assistance to her new friend.

Post by Harper Haile on Dec 20, 2017 0:12:06 GMT -8

As Harper would listen to her friend, her face would fall again for just a quick moment. She tried to keep her composure as her fingers traced the words on the menu before her but her heart started to beat fast. It was right after she mentioned her struggle in not being sure how to contact one of her friends. A small crack appeared in her happy mood and sadness slipped in as her mind rudely thought about her missing loved one. Although she was relieved to be accepted, happy to make a friend and enjoy every moment of living her fantasy... She clutched her knees for a moment... trying her best to keep her composure. She had not been able to talk about what had happened without crying yet, doing her best to avoid the discussion when possible.

She knows about myths and stuff... you could talk about legendary Pokemon, or the cat ghost you are looking for... or all kinds of interesting... stuff... you could talk about how she picks out her clothes...

['If I may ask, why are you having trouble with your job.']

She sniffed loudly, her nose quickly betraying her and embarrassing her with a snotty sound. No. Please. Little tears started to fill her eyes and she...

She tried to choke them down and just say it. "No." Oops. That was to herself, not to Alanna. Didn't mean to say that outloud. "I mean. My Papa... I mean..." She gripped her chest a bit, looking down at the floor. This was so hard. "He's my partner. We worked together forever and he's... he's missing..." She tried not to cry, she tried her hardest not to cry... but she felt little tears start to slip out.

"I can't find him." She buried her hands in her face and started to sob, hating herself. She had been happy just a moment before. Why was she still crying about him? Why couldn't she be strong? Why was she always so emotional? She didn't want to look...

[It was great! H-harper's muse has been unable to not... cry when this disccusion has been brought up. ;v; S-Sorry..]Alanna Asakura

Post by Alanna Asakura on Dec 26, 2017 15:30:54 GMT -8

It wasn’t hard for Alanna to catch the shift in Harper's features even though she was talking, Alanna still watched her new friend. Every movement Harper made told Alanna that there was something wrong. From Harper subtly tracing the menu to the look in her eyes. Even was even easier for Alanna to see the drop into a melancholic sadness in Harper, when Alanna mentioned Makani. She watched as Harper clutched her knees to her chest for a moment, this made her seem like a lost child looking for their parent.

It broke Alanna’s heart, she had chosen to leave home, in fact she had run away to get away from her overbearing father. Standing up with the grace and silence of a Liepard, Alanna moved to a chair closer to Harper. Now not caring if she was invading her new friends space. Now closer, it wasn’t hard for Alanna to see the tears forming in Harper blue eyes, the sniffling leaving the young woman, cause Alanna’s heart to clench painfully.

Lifting a finger Alanna gently wiped a tear from Harper’s cheek, before wrapping her in a warm, gentle hug. The true motherly side of Alanna slipping through. The side that made her such an excellent breeder, that motherly compassion she felt even for those she hardly knew. Hugging Harper close Alanna caught the tiny squeak of a no from Harper, this causing her to loosen her grip on the hug a small bit.

The small words Harper managed to choke out, however caused Alanna to instinctively pull Harper closer, as she scooted her own chair closer to the small woman. Holding Harper Alanna felt the tiny tears drop onto her jacket. She was listening to Harper a serious expression on her face, she now knew she couldn’t leave Harper alone. She had to help her in some way. “I know saying it won’t help, but I truly am sorry Harper.” Alanna’s tone was soft and filled with a deep loving compassion, as she leaned back holding Harper by the shoulders softly. “Do, you have any place to stay and use a home base for your search? If not, I have an extra room I don’t mind lending you for a while.” Alanna’s voice was soft and filled with a warm kindness with her offer.

Releasing Harper for a moment, Alanna sat back in her chair as she ran her finger over her pocket. Feeling the Pokeball within, she couldn’t help the small smile, that crossed her lips with the sudden Idea of how to cheer up Harper. At least for a moment. “Have you ever ridden on an Arcanine, or a Luxray before?” She asked with a brightly cheerful tone. “Why don’t we finish this conversation at my place, it’s much cozier there.” She offered hoping that Harper would indeed accept the offer of visiting the ranch now, rather than later.

Post by Harper Haile on Jan 5, 2018 1:54:52 GMT -8

Harper remembered how it was when her and Mama finally realized that Papa was truly missing. The first few days had been filled with the normal sort of jitters when someone was late... but Papa had been late before. They didn’t think much of it.

But when week passed and the people who were supposed to have met him along the way said they never saw him... they started to worry.Then two weeks passed... a month...

He was gone.

But Mama never shed a tear. She was strong, independent, and maybe a bit hard. Not sharp or jaded, she didn’t expect that resilience from anyone else. But she also didn’t know how to be very emotional or relate to those that were very emotional. Mama had never been involved in Harper and Papa's paranormal hobby and had gotten used to the two of them never being home. Her days were spent working at the restaurant and providing a regular stable income.

So while she was worried about him of course, her day to day routine stayed the same..

Well for the most part.

Instead of something missing she had gained a new addition. Her daughter.

She had tried to connect with Harper but her own child was a stranger to her. She didn’t know how to relate to her, and honestly, Harper didn’t know how to either. Harper was extremely dependent and latched onto her and tried to absorb herself in her mother’s life the way she had her father but… she wasn’t cut out for the life that Mama had built. Cooking was tricky, dealing with people made her anxious all the time, and she never knew what she was doing. She always just felt in the way… and every day felt the same.

And she just missed him so much…

She had never been able to look towards her own mother for comfort. Mama cared about the fragile emotions of her husband and her daughter, but she was a protector. Good for chasing away a bully, but not to hold… whenever they hugged it felt unnatural. Mama didn’t like it at all really, but did it because that was what people who loved each other were supposed to do, right? It was an expectation…

Harper felt like such a burden…

But this…

In Alanna’s embrace she found a different feeling. Although she was shy and tried hard assert herself at first, she didn’t put up much fight before she was clinging to her tight. Sobbing in the soft outfit of her new friend, smelling her comforting pretty smells..

She sniffed a lot and listened to the sweet words of her new friend, hard to shake the feeling in the pit of her stomach that she was embarrassing herself. She never managed to act her age, no matter how hard she tried… but acting her age was so hard. This was so all so hard…

The thoughts brought out more tears as Alanna held her out and smiled at her. “‘S okay..” it wasn’t, and saying it was sucked. It wasn’t okay at all.

“I.. I can’t go back home. All I think about is how he’s not there… about how he’s missing. C-Could I?”

Her big wobbly eyes were finally relaxing and she was rubbing the tears out of her eyes, catching herself after she found herself wiping her hand against her nose… ew…

“I could stay? I wouldn’t be a bother? I’m trying to earn money and…”

She gulped and nodded… and then shook her head so there was no confusing.

“I’ve.. I never.. Is… is it.. I mean.” she shivered a little, but there was a little smile there. The idea sounded… exciting absolutely, but also scary. She had read so much strange stories about nearly every Pokemon you could think of, presenting them in frightening manners… her mind actually did wander to a story about an Arcanine appearing out of thin air… attacking all that tried to go inside a abandoned warehouse…

But…

“I want to see your place.” One last big sniff. She hoped it was pretty…

Post by Alanna Asakura on Jan 6, 2018 11:26:48 GMT -8

Alanna had never really had much of a mother figure in her life, she had learned how to be compassionate, and affectionate from the maids that her father had employed. Losing her mother at young age was one thing that had changed Alanna. She had no true female roll model in her life. The feminine, loving, and friendly figures she had in her life, had all been hired help. Either hired to watch over her at a young age, or to work around her father’s ranch and train the Pokémon. She had been forced to learn etiquette, and manners from high society. Forced to be a demure little doll at her father’s side at every party. She had been nothing more than a way to carry on the family business, and marry off to a “Good” Husband to keep the ranch going.

Alanna had no interest in any of it to be honest. That’s why she had chosen a Pichu as her friend when she was young, instead of any of the Pokémon her father’s employee’s trained. Most people expected her to be the spoiled rich child. But that wasn’t her. She just wanted Pokémon and people to be friends. She wanted to make everyone happy. She wanted people and Pokémon to live in harmony. But her father didn’t see it that way. A Pokémon was to powerful and obedient, to protect their trainers or their home. Alanna never saw it that way, she thought that friendship and understanding was the way to achieve any sort of true harmony with Pokémon. That was why Alanna had run away from home and was still hiding in Veria out of reach of her father.

Letting Harper cry into her jacket, she didn’t seem to mind at all. As she gently reached up stroking the back of Harper’s hair and head. She knew this girl was hurting, and badly. She couldn’t sympathize because their lives had been so different. But Alanna did however understand the pain that Harper was feeling. The pain of loss, she had watched her Pichu torn apart, right after it had evolved into Pikachu. Her father had punished her by forcing her to watch as a Houndoom tore Belladonna into bloody shreds. It had been crushing and so excruciating to watch she hadn’t eaten anything for nearly four days afterwards, let alone leaving her bedroom for nearly two weeks. She had been ten years old at that time. She wouldn’t leave home for another six years.

“My door is open to you, and anything you need Harper.” She crooned assuring Harper in her warm soft tones, as she dug a handkerchief from her pocket and offered it to Harper to blow her nose and wipe her face. “For as long as you need.” She offered Harper a kind yet sunnily warm smile. “No bother at all, I mean I have a lot of Pokémon, but it does get lonely without another person if a five-bedroom house.” She gave a soft laugh as she thought about how strange that sounded.

Finally, as Harper decided to go with Alanna, her smile turned to one of happiness and warmth as she hugged Harper one last time. “Well then, why don’t you come meet two of my closest partners?” She offered standing up eagerly from her chair leaving enough money to cover both her own food and Harper order plus a tip.

Waiting for Harper to follow her, Alanna would lead the girl out the front door of the Café, to where both the charcoal black Luxray and Houndoom, sat casually watching passersby. Walking up boldly to both of them Alanna reached out stroking both Pokémon’s head with a hand each. “Such good patient boys.” She crooned proudly to her Pokémon, before turning to face Harper and bring her own Pokémon’s attention to the girl. “Harper, I would like you to meet Tesla.” Alanna held out her hand motioning to the Luxray who stepped forward. He was actually quite a bit larger than a normal Luxray and clearly a color not usual for his species.

Giving a soft rumble of greeting, the Luxray stepped forward to sniff Harper and her Togepi, before giving Harper an affectionate rub of his large head against her hip. Clearly a very friendly and loving ball of giant electric charge. Then took a step back to stand at Alanna’s side where she placed a hand on his shoulder.

“And this is Rees.” Alanna motioned with her free hand to the Houndoom, who wore the deep maroon collar, with the ruby spikes. A Houndoomnite rested in the center at his throat. Stepping forward he sniffed Harper and gave her hand a soft lick before stepping back to Alanna’s side. He was clearly a more reserved Pokémon than his feline counterpart. Though still clearly an affectionate Pokémon.

Stepping forward she turned around and looked at both Pokémon. “Tessy, Rees, Harper and her Pokémon are going to be staying with us for a while. So be sure everyone is nice to them.” She spoke to her Pokémon, who both gave nods and sounds of affirmation. Turning back to Harper she now had a Pokeball in her hand. “So, Harper, I asked this before. Have you ever ridden on a Pokémon?” She asked with a playful smile.

Post by Harper Haile on Jan 8, 2018 10:15:26 GMT -8

Harper's mood was improving, bit by bit. She took the offered handkerchief and blew her nose in it loudly, sniffling a few times in between.

'It's so pretty... I got to start keeping hanky's on me...' she thought, holding it... a little unsure what to do with it now. Do you hand this sort of thing back? It was all covered in her boogies though. As she pondered this intense question, sort of wanting to not make the wrong choice.. she watched as Alanna paid for their meal. Although she felt a bit shy about letting her do that, there was also something unmistakably comfortable about it. This girl felt... so good to be true that she could feel her barriers coming down each moment. It was natural talking with her in a way that wasn't true of most of the people she met. She didn't feel as anxious.

She bent over and gripped her Togepi and hugged her, a little tight now that she was feeling all a flutter. Her Togepi appreciated it though, and let out a pleased sound.

She let herself be lead out of the coffee shop, finally glancing around dealing with her curiosity if people had noticed. She did notice quite a few people were looking for a little, but none of them had particularly annoyed expressions. A nice older woman even gave her a concerned smile, and waved over at her. Harper felt a bit silly.... but it was nice to know that her crying hadn't ruined anyone's meal.

When she turned around her heart jumped a little... and she shivered a little walking out. R-Right. The Pokemon. Pokemon were always larger than they looked in pictures to her, often forgetting the difference in perspective she had in comparison to most photographers.

"H-Hello there..." she said, giving a nervous smile towards the Luxray. She squeaked a little when Luxray nuzzled her with it's sharp looking fur, but found the sensation strange... tingly, although maybe that was just in her mind. It kind of tickled... but her breathing still quickened. It didn't stop as she was introduced to the second Pokemon, who seemed more interested in her hand. She tried to move it a little, mostly to try to work up the courage to pet it... but then she squealed a second time when it licked it. Warm. A little warmer than she expected... she would have normally expected it to feel a little colder than her own body heat. Or maybe that was just his breath?

To be honest she thought she was keeping her composure more than she really was, her body language was so stiff and her reactions quick it was obvious the Pokemon made her a bit nervous. Frightened was an easy assumption.

Togepi throughout was more energetic, a friendly little ball of energy that made happy sounds and tried to get the attention of both big new friends. Togepi was always a social one though.

She felt a bit like she wasn't saying much, but getting so worked up and feeling a bit scared was making her more reserved. She hadn't realized that doing so had made her forget to answer her friend though, and she gasped. "Oh, I actually haven't! Me and Papa usually took the train, or other things when we needed to go places.." She clutched the Togepi and then looked back at the two Pokemon. It was true that she totally could ride them...

"Do they go very fast? Do you have to feed them special stuff? Is it hard?" She felt her mood slowly improving, moving close to her new friend. Despite her fright about the big Pokemon there was something unmistakable.. she did sound excited about the idea a little. I mean, who wouldn't?

"How come you have a five bedroom house, Alanna? Did you use to live with people?" It was something her curious mind wouldn't let go of. It seemed strange to have that big of a house if you weren't planning on living with people... she couldn't imagine her needing more than two herself.

Post by Alanna Asakura on Jan 8, 2018 10:59:24 GMT -8

Happy to finally see Harper starting to see Harper calm down, and relax more. Though she was still sniffling it was alright. Alanna knew Harper was in pain, and it was okay to cry when something hurt. Keeping it locked away only caused you trouble in the end.

Seeing Harper’s clear distress on what to do with the handkerchief, she couldn’t help the small chuckle. “Hang on to it. You can have that one, I have plenty more at home.” She, offered sweetly with a soft giggle in her voice. Alanna could tell that Harper wasn’t normally as open with people as she was being with her. And that was okay. Alanna liked it that a lot of people she came across found her to be a comfort. She liked being that for people, she liked being more than just a doll, like she was back home. Here people were kind and honest, most of the time. But they were there, and she had made so many friends here.

Alanna couldn’t help the small smile, that appeared on her lips, as she watched Harper’s interaction with her Pokémon. She could see the fear, it was there, and she knew it. It wasn’t to long ago that she herself had been afraid of the very Houndoom, who now so loyally stayed by her side when she had been injured.

The Luxray seemed to be quite interested in Togepi who was now begging for his attention. Stepping up he lifted his large head, nuzzling the muzzle smaller Pokémon. Soft purring sounds left the Luxray as he gave the little Pokémon a soft lick. Though his fur seemed coarse it was actually quite soft, though it held small amounts of static due to his typing.

“Oh well, you’re in for a treat. I prefer open air travel.” She cast Harper a playful wink to try and help her relax. Knowing her next Pokémon was probably going to be a bit of shock. She couldn’t help the soft laugh that left her at the new barrage of questions. “They only go as fast as you tell them to actually. Tesla is a great Pokémon for riding.” She chimed the tidbit of information about the large electric feline. “No, they don’t really need anything special, usually just a good brushing afterward, and a treat.” She grinned holding up her Pokeball. Giving a quick toss of the Pokeball, she gave a soft smile. “Pupper come out!” She called, as the Pokeball popped open, and a massive beam of red light took the form of an Arcanine.

The large Canine stood quite a bit away, where Alanna summoned it. Hoping it wouldn’t startle the girl to much. “But I have to say, there’s nothing like snuggling into the fluffy warmth of an Arcanine’s ruff as you ride it.” Alanna gave Harper a soft wink, as the large fire dog slowly approached and lowered its head down to nuzzle Alanna’s chest. “This boy was a gift from the fossil lab professor. His name Pupper.” Alanna introduced the new Pokemon rather gently. “Pupper this is Harper.” She introduced them to each other. The Arcanine leaning down and licking the new human’s cheek. He nuzzled her happily giving soft whines of joy. Clearly a very loving and friendly Pokémon.She gave a soft laugh at Harper next question. “Well the property and house were given to me, by an old couple who were former breeders. They said I could have it I cleaned it up myself and repaired it. So of course, I jumped on the offer. Though I had no idea it was so big.” She gave a rather amused laugh. “I mean I guess the were rooms that the former owners used for their employees but I’m not sure.” She cast Harper a playful grin. “Just means now I have place to offer people who need help.” She half mused this last thought mostly to herself. She liked helping people, so it wasn’t a big deal having such a large home.

Mod Summons

To summon a mod, just let us know what you need along with a link to the appropriate thread if needed! To use items like Move Techs that don't have a thread involved, just let us know how many you're using so we can remove them from your inventory.